THE ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE 
REGION : : : : : : : : : : By Charles W. Hargitt 


From BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES, Volume XXXII, 1912 


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THE ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION 
& 


By Charies W. Hargitt 
Professor of Zoology, Syracuse University 


223 


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THE ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION. 
* 


By CHARLES W. HARGITT, 
Professor of Zoology, Syracuse University. 


* ‘ 
INTRODUCTORY. 


The present report aims to present in convenient form a synoptic account of the 
Anthozoa (Actinozoa) of the region, adapted alike to the needs of the general worker 
in systematic zoology and those desiring in brief compass a modern survey of the habits, 
characteristics, and local distribution of the group. 

. The material forming the basis of the report has been collected for the most part 
by the writer at various times during the past five years, though ‘some of the specimens 
of deep-water habitat were collected by the Fish Hawk during dredging expeditions at 
various times within the past 10 years. A record of these latter collections will be 
noted in connection with the several species concerned. 

It is again my pleasure to acknowledge the assistance of Mr. Vinal N. Edwards in 
many ways. My thanks are also due to Commissioner George M. Bowers and to Dr. F. B. 
Sumner, director of the laboratory, for many courtesies. 


GENERAL ACCOUNT. 


Anthozoa are marine animals of various range of distribution, habit, size, ete., and 
variously known as actinians, sea anemones, polyps, etc. In general they are more or 
less sedentary, i. e., attached to some permanent support, such as rocks, piles, etc., or 
in some cases (Alcyonaria) rooted in the sandy bottoms where they thrive, or in still 
other cases (corals) forming a calcareous skeleton, which in the subtropical species gives 
rise to complex reef masses. Not a few of the actinians have a measure of locomotor 
power and creep, snail-like, over the supporting base to which they are attached. And 
again still others are given to a commensal mode of life, forming the well-known partner- 
ships with hermit crabs or other creatures of similar habit. Further notice of these 
peculiarities will be given in connection with the species which exhibit the trait. 

Anthozoa, in common with other classes of coelenterates, may live a wholly solitary 
and independent life, as in most actinians, or may form highly complex colonies, as in 
most corals and Alcyonaria. In the case of colonial species the polyps are usually 


225 


226 BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES. 


united in more or less compact masses, the whole colony being brought into communal 
relations by means of a common body substance, the coenenchyme, through which a 
system of gastric canals ramifies in various degrees, and thus directly or indirectly brings 
the various individuals into communication, both for nutritive and for protective pur- 
poses. It is most interesting to observe the sensory continuity which prevails in one of 
these colonies. Any irritation which disturbs one polyp is promptly conveyed to every 
individual of the colony, a sensory wave passing over the community not unlike that 
produced by the wind upon a field of grain or tall grass. 


MORPHOLOGY. 


In form and structure Anthozoa have many features of very considerable interest, 
not only to the critical student of morphology but to the casual observer or student of 
natural history. In form there is exhibited a wide range, from the simple polyp, of 
minute size and of structure hardly more complex than that of a hydrozoan, to the com- 
plexity and mass of immense communal aggregates of reef corals and sea plumes and 
gigantic anemones more than a foot in diameter. 

In fundamentals of structure there is of course a more or less intimate homology 
running throughout the entire class, though with considerable ordinal peculiarities, and 
even generic and specific features more or less unique. The general form of the individual 
polyp, whether actinian or alcyonarian, is cylindrical or barrel-shaped, with a hollow 
gastric interior. Usually the height is considerably greater than the diameter, but 
owing to the highly contractile powers of the organisms these proportions vary greatly 
under various conditions of contraction. The body is terminated by a basal portion 
usually known as the foot, or pedal disk, and by an upper terminal portion, the oral 
disk, or peristome. The body proper is usually designated as the column. In sedentary 
species the pedal disk forms an organ of attachment, or in those having motile power 
constitutes the chief organ of locomotion. ‘This feature is rather peculiar to the free- 
living species, though it may be absent in such tube-dwelling forms as Cerianthus. 

The oral disk is characterized by the presence of a distinct mouth, which is usually 
of oval shape, especially in actinians, and with its edges, or lips, more or less folded or 
corrugated. The mouth communicates with the gastric cavity or enteron through an 
cesophagus, the inner end of which opens abruptly into the gastric cavity. , 

A series of radially arranged septa, the mesenteries, connect the inner walls of 
the cesophagus with those of the body, thereby forming a regular series of alternating 
septa and pockets, the latter ending blindly at the oral disk above, except as they 
may communicate with the bases of hollow tentacles, but opening freely below into 
the enteron. The margins of the mesenteries below their cesophageal connections are 
often more or less thickened, and bear filaments which are characteristic of Anthozoa. 
They are composed of entoderm, and are richly supplied with gland and nettling 
organs. In many actinians these latter organs are threadlike, highly contractile struc- 
tures known as acontia, which are loaded with specialized nettling cells, and may be 


ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION. 227 


thrust out of special pores, cinclides, or through improvised openings in the tissues of 
the body wall. 

The marginal portion of the oral disk bears the tentacles, which are usually hollow 
outgrowths from this part of the body. They vary greatly in size and number in 
different species and genera. In Cerianthide they form two distinct sets, the cir- 
cumoral, surrounding the mouth, and the marginal, corresponding to those of other 
orders. The latter are often designated as primary or principal tentacles; the former 
as accessory or circumoral. 

As indicated above, the general form of the body as a whole is more or less cylin- 
drical. Peculiarities of distinction will be considered in connection with those species 
exhibiting them. This will also be the case in reference to particular features of oral 
or pedal disks. In many of the orders some form of skeleton, calcareous or horny, is 
present. This is particularly the case with most corals and alcyonarians. On the 
other hand, most or all actinians are entirely devoid of anything of the sort. 

Another feature of some significance is the habit of certain actinians to expand 
and inflate the pedal disk and thus convert it into a float by means of which they are 
able to migrate under the influence of currents, much as do certain other pelagic 
coelenterates (Vesalia). This has been observed in several local species, and it seems 
not unlikely that it may be of more general occurrence than might be supposed. 
Among those which exhibit the phenomenon may be mentioned Sagartia lucie, S. 
leucolena, and Anemonia sargassensis. It should be stated, however, that this has 
been noted only in specimens in the aquarium; but its occurrence under these condi- 
tions with more or less frequency would strongly suggest its occurrence in nature under 
certain circumstances. , 


COLORATION. 


In comparatively few classes of animals are there richer or more varied exhibitions 
of color than among Anthozoa. This is particularly striking in the tropical or sub- 
tropical species. To those who may have had the exquisite pleasure of looking upon 
the splendid display of colors associated with coral reefs no emphasis will be needed on 
this point; and to others an adequate verbal description would seem highly exaggerated. 
The profusion of coloration and the plantlike features of many of these ccelenterates 
are doubtless the occasion of such names as anemones, anthozoa, zoophytes, etc., by 
which many of them are known even to this day. 

Into the problem of the origin or significance of colors in these lower classes no 
attempt will be made to enter seriously. Something of this has been done by the 
writer in an earlier paper (1904) and to a less extent in a report on the Medusz of Woods 
Hole (1905). However, there are some points of particular phases of color involved in 
Anthozoa which call for notice. In the first place, it is interesting and significant that 
among these creatures color is due to distinctly different factors. For example, Duerden 
(1905) has shown that among many corals the dominant color is due to the presence 
of commensal alge, Zooxanthelle, which thrive in the entodermal tissues of the polyps. 


228 BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES. 


In such cases the problem of color is transferred from the animal to the plant, which 
relieves the present discussion of any particular consideration of the matter. It may 
suffice, therefore, to say that in such cases color is only of secondary or incidental bio- 
logical significance, and is meaningless in relation to any problem of adaptation or 
protection. In the words of Duerden, ‘The rich profusion and beauty of color in 
coral polyps certainly seems to have no protective or warning significance” (op. cit., 
p. 16). 

But even in organisms in which color is constitutional there is little or no relation 
to environmental influences. For example, many actinians and alcyonarians living 
under identical conditions have very different color features; and, on the other hand, 
species of widely differing habitats and diverse environments exhibit closely similar 
aspects of coloration. Furthermore, a species which shows remarkable color variations 
in a given habitat will often show the same variations through its entire range of dis- 
tribution. As an example of this may be cited the well-known case of the common 
Metridium maraqinatum. The world-wide distribution of this species (assuming with 
MecMurrich its identity with M. dianthus), and the very similar aspects. of coloration, 
illustrates the point under consideration, showing that conditions of environment or 
habitat have little to do with the character or variation of colors, at least so far as this 
species may have any significance. 

The influence of conditions of nutrition, as already shown by me in former papers 
(op. cit.), act in similar manner on Anthozoa. Actinians kept in the aquarium very 
soon show color changes indicative of lowered states of vitality, unless pains be taken 
to obtain approximately natural conditions. In the celebrated Naples aquarium this 
has been more successfully done than I have seen elsewhere. Here certain species of 
actinians have thrived for years with little loss of vitality or change of coloration. 


PHOSPHORESCENCE. 


Among the many various and complex phenomena of life few are more unique or 
obscure than that of phosphorescence, or vital luminosity, the former name being more 
or less a misnomer, since except in appearance there is little or nothing in common 
between the phenomena to which it was originally applied, and those associated with 
living things. However, the term has become so generally associated with all sorts of 
luminous phenomena of similar appearance, and devoid of appreciable heat, that its 
, use is likely to continue; and if care be taken to discriminate no serious confusion is 
likely to arise. 

The occurrence of phosphorescence in many species, and in a wide range throughout 
the entire class, makes some reference to the subject more or less incumbent. While 
probably much more general in tropical and subtropical waters it is yet fairly common 
elsewhere, being well known throughout the region concerned in this report. 

Much speculation has been aroused concerning its use,or significance, and various 
and conflicting theories projected. No attempt will be made here to review the subject 
historically, nor to cite the various differences of opinion which have grown up. 


ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION. 229 


Among the older students of coelenterates Johnson and Forbes made observations 
and experiments in connection with the subject, and in turn cite similar observations 
made by Ehrenberg, Spallanzani, and others, showing no less interest than has been 
common in later times. 

Macartney proved by experiments that the phenomenon might be aroused by a wide 
variety of stimuli, such as temperature, mechanical disturbance, chemical agents (as 
alcohol), electricity, ete. Forbes was able to confirm certain of these results, and also 
proved that in the phenomenon there was no evidence of electrical discharge, and further 
that no heat was evolved in connection with the emission of light. 

Allman also studied the subject in connection with hydroids. He found the phe- 
nomenon exhibited by various calyptoblastic hydroids, but not in any known gymno- 
blastea. Like other observers, he found that various physical and chemical stimuli 
were needed to evoke displays of light. He was not able to find any phosphorescent 
secretion in the hydroids, such as had been found in connection with insects and other 
phosphorescent organisms. 

Among Anthozoa its occurrence has been best known in groups of alcyonaria, 
especially in species of Pennatula, Gorgonia, etc., but not unknown in such solitary forms 
as the actinians. In the latter it has been observed chiefly in the slimy secretion of the 
ectoderm. 

Reference has already been made to the conflicting theories as to the significance 
of phosphorescence. A few words must suffice on this point. It was suggested by both 
Carpenter,and Thomson that it might have some importance as a source of abyssal light, 
thus affording some means by which the inhabitants of the darkness of great depths 
might be aided in finding food, evading enemies, etc. But, on the other hand, Mosely 
has pointed out the inadequacy of such a view. Many facts seem utterly in conflict 
with the theory. For example, the light of organisms from these depths has been found 
to be more or less monochromatic, or of only two or three colors. This would suggest 
that othercolors would be invisible under such light, hence incompatible with the theory. 
He concludes that colors of deep-sea forms are probably only incidental, or features 
persisting from earlier conditions when the creatures were inhabitants of shallow waters. 
And on this and similar grounds he adduces a strong argument as to the comparatively 
recent migration of many of the abyssal forms into their present habitat. 

Verrill has suggested that phosphorescence might serve as a warning to predaceous 
fishes that luminous organisms were provided with weapons of defense which it were well 
to evade. A. Agassiz has pertinently suggested that the well-known cases of Physalia, 
Cyanea, etc., and their commensals, and the habits of many fishes of feeding constantly 
in the coral and alcyonarian forests, all went to prove that ‘“‘they are not in dread of lasso- 
cells.” Among the most brilliantly phosphorescent of our local fauna are ctenophores. 
But it is well known that these are fed upon by a number of fishes. It may be safely 
assumed, therefore, that Verrill’s suggestion is utterly without significance as an 
explanation. 


17328°—14——2 


230 BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES. 


More recently Nutting has suggested the ingenious view that phosphorescence may 
serve as a lure, attracting copepods and various larve within reach of the luminous 
organism. ‘‘The process would be analogous, perhaps, to what is known as the effect 
of alluring coloration among insects and birds. The phosphorescence would thus be of 
direct utility to the fixed ccelenterates in securing food.”’ Unfortunately, there is no 
more evidence in support of this than in that of Prof. Verrill. And on the other hand, 
there is much which goes to show that such a view is directly in conflict with too large 
a mass of facts to render it at all probable. Such are the facts of phosphorescence in 
littoral forms, and in free-swimming and surface forms, whose modes of taking prey 
render it highly improbable that they have any need of such an aid. Phosphorescence is 
not solely a property of deep-sea life nor of nocturnal feeders. The writer regards it as 
associated with processes of metabolism; and while not beyond the realm of utility to 
the organism it is not directly so. Theories dealing with the subject have been pro- 
pounded on the assumption that every vital feature and phenomenon must be brought 
into alignment with natural selection. It is to be hoped that we are emerging from the 
shadow of that assumption. 


REPRODUCTION. 


Generation in this class, as in others of the phylum, is both sexual and asexual, 
though without the more or less rhythmic alternation of generations so characteristic of 
the Hydrozoa. ‘The sexual products are borne on certain of the mesenteries, and when 
ripe are usually extruded through the mouth. In some species, however, development 
may take place within the mesenterial chambers, and the young later discharged in a 
fully formed condition. The sexes are usually distinct, as in most Hydrozoa, but may 
be united in a single individual in certain species. That is, Anthozoa may be either 
dicecious or moncecious—unisexual or bisexual. Duerden has shown (1904), in the 
case of certain corals, that the bisexual or hermaphrodite condition may prevail, a given 
individual producing both ova and sperms, though not at the same time. That is, the 
genital products mature at somewhat different intervals, the organism being protogynous, 
maturing the ova first; or it may be protandrous, maturing the sperms first. 

Asexual propagation is of general occurrence and of great importance. It is chiefly 
by the process of budding; though fission is not unknown among actinians, a given 
specimen dividing longitudinally, much asin Vorticella. Parker (1897, Bulletin of Museum 
of Comparative Zoology, p. 43) has described this process in Metridium marginatum, 
and Torrey has shown the same in the case of M. fimbriatum (Proceedings California 
Academy of Sciences, vol. 1, p. 345, 1898). The writer has observed the entire process take 
place in Sagartia lucie, a small but extremely interesting anemone of our coast. In this 
species fission is apparently a common feature of reproduction. In text figure 1 is shown 
a sketch of a Metridium in process of fission. Such specimens are not particularly rare. 
Still another mode of asexual reproduction is more or less familiar, namely, that known 
as fragmentation. It consists of the formation of numerous minute individuals by 
a sort of indefinite budding from the margins of the pedal disk. This process seems 


ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION. 231 


to be rather common in Metridium marginatum, as I have found many cases occurring, 
both in the aquarium and in a state of nature. Torrey (op. cit.), has suggested that it 
may be due to the unfavorable conditions of the aquarium, but its occurrence in natural 
conditions as just cited would preclude this as a cause. 


DISTRIBUTION. 


Anthozoa are of wide distribution, both in time (geological) and in space (geograph- 
ical), and also in bathymetrical range. Of the first, or geological, it is not within the 
scope of the present paper to take notice. Of geographical range it may suffice to say 
that, like the former, a general consideration of the problem is not designed in the present 
review. Many conditions are involved in the matter of distribution, among which 
temperature plays an important part. This is particularly the case with alcyonaria, 
which are predominantly tropical or subtropical organisms. ‘The same may also be said 
of the coral group, or Zoanthariz. 

In bathymetrical range there is great variation among the several groups. Many 
of each have been dredged from great depths, but by far the larger number have their 
habitat in shallower seas and along shore lines. In certain cases a given species may 
find itself equally at home in depths of from 50 to 1,500 fathoms. Bathyactts is recorded 
as being found in depths of from 50 to 3,000 fathoms. 


ECONOMIC RELATIONS. 


In common with ceelenterates in general, the economic relations of Anthozoa are 
chiefly incidental and indirect. A few fishes are known to feed on corals, a few on 
hydroids, perhaps still fewer on alcyonarians or others. So far as I am aware, actinians 
are usually immune from predatory attacks. Furthermore, certain actinians may 
serve as hiding places for small fishes, which have established commensal relations with 
them. On the other hand, not a few actinians feed upon fishes more or less freely. 
The commensal relations of actinians and hermit crabs are well known. 

Indirectly corals have played a very important part in the contour of islands and 
continents from Paleozoic to recent times. And at present in subtropical regions these 
organisms are constantly concerned in the extension of certain coast lines by the forma- 
tions of reefs along its margins. Thus, may be reclaimed something of the areas 
constantly being lost through erosion and transportation of continental débris into the 
seas; but, on the other hand, growth of these organisms in harbors and roadways of 
steamships often involve obstructions and dangers hard to overcome. 


SYSTEMATIC ACCOUNT. 


In common with that of other classes of ccelenterates, existing conditions of 
taxonomy of Anthozoa are not highly satisfactory. Several attempts at revision have 
been made within comparatively recent times, but much yet remains to be done before 
an orderly and adequate system of classification will be established. Among those who 


232 BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES. 


have contributed materially to this end may be mentioned the following: Hertwig, 
R. and O. (1879); Hertwig, R. (1882); Andre, A. (1884); McMurrich, J. P. (1894); 
Van Beneden (1897); Carlgren (1900). These works are devoted almost exclusively 
to the Actinozoa. Similar work upon the Alcyonaria has been done by May (1899), 
Kukenthal (1905), and Studer. 

While it is no part of the purpose of this report to enter into the matter of taxonomy 
in any detail, it may not be amiss to include brief synoptic tables indicative of opinion 
as to this phase of our subject, at least, as relates to Actiniaria. A valuable review of 
the history of taxonomic development along this line may be found in the report of 
MecMurrich on the Actinize of the Albatross Expedition (Proceedings, U. S. National 
Museum, vol. xvi, 1893, p. 119-135). Brief historical references are also made by 
Hertwig (Challenger Report, vol. v1, p. 16-18) to this phase of the general subject, though 
with no attempt to trace the development of taxonomic systems. 

Concerning the systems proposed by Van Beneden (1897) and Carlgren (1900), it 
is hardly within the scope of this paper to undertake an adequate review. Both are 
noteworthy contributions and will command the attention of specialists everywhere. 
They involve, however, considerable of embryological and histological details and 
methods, and are hence somewhat too technical for use in the present instance. 

Under almost all modern systems of classification the musculature of the body 
has constituted one of the most important taxonomic characters. It becomes necessary, 
therefore, to devote some further attention to this feature. As to their relations, the 
muscles may be said to be ectodermal, entodermal, or mesodermal, as they are associated 
with these several tissues. The musculature is disposed chiefly in two positions, namely, 
(1) as longitudinal fibers distributed to the walls of the column; (2) as circular bands 
distributed variously over the body. Of the latter there is usually a special development 
in the oral region known as the sphincter. This acts as an organ for closing the mouth, 
much as one might close the opening of a bag by a draw string. 

R. Hertwig has emphasized the importance of various aspects of the musculature as 
taxonomic features and says: 

The nature of the sphincter varies greatly. We talk of a diffuse sphincter when it arises from 
repeated pleatings of the muscular lamella; in that case because it is not sharply defined at the upper 
and lower margins, it does not strike the eye in looking at the surface, and is shown in transverse 
sections only by the local thickening of the wall in whose substance it is completely embedded. A 
circumscribed sphincter is formed when the pleated muscular mass projects above the inner surface 
of the wall, with which it is connected only by a narrow band, so that an annular swelling arises which 
is easily observed both in looking at the surface and in transverse section. 

Finally, in the mesodermal sphincter, the muscles have left their original position in the epithelium 
and are completely hidden in the supporting substance, which consequently increases doubly or trebly 
in thickness. The complete absence of the sphincter is comparatively rare. I have only observed 
it in a few species, almost invariably animals which are not capable of contracting the upper margin of 
the wall over the oral disk. This is, however, also the case in animals with a weak sphincter, such as 
the Antheade. On the other hand, the existence of a strong circular muscle can often be inferred with 
tolerable certainly from a high degree of contraction. The capacity for concealing the oral disk plays 
an important part in the systematic division of the Actiniaria; this is generally most inappropriately 
expressed by the term “‘retractile tentacles.’’ It would be decidedly more rational to make the ana- 


ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION. 233 


tomical reason, and not the physiological appearance, of systematic value. We shall therefore talk of 
Actiniaria without sphincter, and Actiniaria with weak and with strong sphincter, and further dis- 
tinguish in the latter case whether the muscle is entodermal or mesodermal. 

The systematic value of the circular muscle does not end here, as it furnishes a character not to be 
undervalued for determining the species. * * * I lay stress upon this point, as the circular muscle 
can be examined in the preserved animals even when their state of preservation is not very favorable, 
and because, moreover, a small piece of the wall, which can be cut away without essential damage to 
the whole animal, is sufficient for such an investigation. (Challenger Report, vol. vi, p. 6-8.) 


Class ANTHOZOA. 


The class Anthozoa, as limited in this synopsis, comprises some two well-marked subclasses, namely, 
the Alcyonaria and the Zoantharia. A third subclass, the Rugosa, includes only fossil forms, which 
makes it undesirable to cumber the present report with any account of it. 

Each of the two subclasses above named comprises in turn three rather well differentiated orders, 
all, with a single exception to be named later, having representatives among the local species. The 
following synopsis of orders may serve as a formal introduction to the taxonomy of the Anthozoa. 


ALCYONARIA. 


The order Alcyonaria includes those members of the class Anthozoa which are characterized by 
the presence of eight pinnate tentacles and a corresponding number of mesenteries. All are of marine 
habit, and most are colonial, forming more or less complex clusters of polyps united to a common stock, 
and with or without definite skeletal structures. In most cases, however, there is a skeleton composed 
of calcareous spicules of various form and color giving to the colonies the characteristic spiny surface 
of many gorgonians and similar forms. 

The distribution of these spicules may be somewhat general throughout the tissues of the body, 
or they may be aggregated into a dense axis as in the so-called black and red corals and in the familiar 
sea fans, etc. 


ORDERS OF ALCYONARIA. 


I. ArcyonacgkA.—Colonial, with a well developed anastomosing canal system. Stem usually 
devoid of axial skeleton, but the coenenchyma bearing numerous separate spicules. 

II. PENNATULACEA.—Colonial, with a stem loosely attached in mud or sand, and capable of some 
degree of locomotion; an axial skeleton extends through the stem in most cases, though lacking in not 
afew. A specialized portion of the stem, the rachis, bears the polyps either as sessile individuals, or 
on numerous pinne which branch from the rachis, as in the familiar sea pens. 

III. Gorconacga.—Colonial, firmly attached by root-like bases or holdfasts. Stem and branches 
with definite axial skeleton of calcareous or horny character, overlaid by a cortical coenenchyma from 
which the polyps arise. 

ZOANTHARIA (Hexactinia). 


Polyps and polyp colonies chacterized by simple or unbranched tentacles in one or more cycles 
about the mouth. Paired mesenteries usually in some multiple of six, though exceptions to this are 
more numerous than formerly supposed. 


ORDERS OF ZOANTHARIA. 


I. AcrintArIA.—Polyps solitary, or rarely colonial, devoid of any skeletal structures, and usually 
adherent by a suctorial or adhesive base, the pedal disk, though capable of more or less locomotion. 
‘Mesenteries in most cases paired and in multiples of six. 

II. MapREPORARIA.—Polyps colonial, or rarely solitary, and with a dense calcareous skeleton, 
forming, in most cases, a complex corallum. 


234 BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES. 


III. AntratHarrA.—Colonial zoantharia, usually with a hollow, branching skeleton of horny 
nature. So far as known, no representatives of this order occur in the region, which obviates the 
necessity for further account of it in this report. 


SYNOPSIS OF TRIBES OF ACTINIARIA. 
EDWARDSIAE R. Hertwig, 1882. 


Noncolonial Actiniaria with eight mesenteries, two pairs of which are directives; others unpaired, 
and their longitudinal muscles face the same direction; all mesenteries gonad bearing. Tentacles 
simple, few in number, usually more numerous than the mesenteries, varying from 12 to 36. Column 
more or less linear and cylindrical, often fluted along the lines of attached mesenteries. 


ZOANTHEAE R. Hertwig, 1882. 


Colonial Actiniaria, with numerous mesenteries of two sorts, namely, small, incomplete, and devoid 
of gonads; large, complete, and gonad bearing. A single cesophageal groove. Outer surface of body 
usually incrusted with a coating of sand or other foreign particles. Tentacles simple. 


CERIANTHEAE R. Hertwig, 1882. 


Actiniaria with numerous, unpaired mesenteries, except a single pair of directives, which are very 
short and attached to the deep cesophageal groove. On either side of these will be found the much 
longer perfect mesenteries, which increase in size in regular order to the opposite (dorsal) side. ‘Tenta- 
cles numerous and in two series—an outer principal and an inner accessory series—the circumoral tenta- 
cles. Body elongate, usually inclosed in a slimy flexible tube. Aboral end of body rounded and 
provided with a terminal pore. 


HEXACTINIAE R. Hertwig, 1882. 


Actiniaria with six or more pairs of primary mesenteries. Other cycles arise in pairs, some of 
which may become perfect, others incomplete. The primary mesenteries are provided with retractor 
muscle fibers on their inner faces i. e., the muscles of each pair facing the intramesenterial space. 
There are usually two cesophageal grooves, with directive mesenteries, whose muscles face outward, or 
opposite the aspect of the other pairs. Body more or less smooth, often with longitudinal furrows, and 
in certain cases with wartlike nodular processes, veruce. Tentacles usually numerous and of various 
characters. 

The above tribal characteristics have been variously compilea from those given by Hertwig, McMur- 
rich, Haddon, Duerden, and Gosse, and to a less extent from Andres, Verrill, and others. 


FAMILIES OF HEXACTINI#. 
ILYANTHIDA Gosse (in part), 1858. 


Body usually elongate, cylindrical, aboral end rounded and with somewhat constricted, bulblike 
physa, but devoid of definite pedal disk. Tentacles simple and relatively few in number, or in some 
cases numerous; sphincter weak. 

There is considerable uncertainty as tothe constitution of this family, some authorities even exclud- 
ing it altogether. Gosse, who established it, included under it the Edwardsiz as well as the Cerianthez. 
Hertwig considers the family as intermediate between the Edwardsie and true Hexactiniz, and so 
ranks them in his system. (Op. cit., p. 92.) 


ANTHEIDZ Gosse (in part), 1858. 


Hexactiniz with well-developed pedal disk, often capable of expansion and inflation as a pneumato- 
phore. (Cf. Gosse, Actinologea Britannica, p.149.) Column generally smooth, sometimes with veruce; 
tentacles long, very flexible, and disposed chiefly about the margin of the disk; mesenteries numerous; 
sphincter muscle very weak, rendering difficult any considerable contraction of disk or tentacles. 


ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION. 235 


SAGARTIID Gosse, 1858. 


Body with strong oral sphincter and numerous highly contractile tentacles. Mesenteries of two 
sorts; principal series in six pairs attached to oesophagus, and devoid of gonads; second series incom- 
plete, and bearing gonads in breeding season. Acontia present and protrusible through cinclides or 
directly through the tissues. 

BOLOCERIDAH McMurrich, 1893. 


Sphincter more or less diffuse and weak; mesenteries devoid of acontia; pedal disk well devel- 
oped; tentacles stout, nonretractile, strongly constricted at base, hence often deciduous. 


BUNODIDZ Gosse, 1858. 


Sphincter entodermal, “body usually studded with numerous tubercles, which are disposed in 
longitudinal rows, and may serve as suckers by means of which they have the faculty of adhering with 
force to foreign bodies.’’ (Gosse.) Mesenteries often numerous and perfect but devoid of acontia. 


PARACTIDA Hertwig, 1882. 


Sphincter mesogleal, strong; body usually devoid of tuberculation, but with numerous longitudinal 
flutings; mesenteries numerous and perfect; no acontia. 


TEALIID Hertwig, 1882. 


“Hexactinia with numerous perfect mesenteries; sphincter strong, entodermal, projecting as a 
thick swelling into gastric cavity.’’ 

“The most important feature of the family is, I consider, the extremely characteristic circular 
muscle, which can be recognized with the naked eye, as a thick swelling on the inner side of the wall. 
In transverse section it shows a circular or oval figure, fastened on one side to the wall; it is formed by 
the extremely strong pleating of the entodermal circular muscle layer. The large number of perfect 
septa is also important; on the other hand, I have entirely disregarded the nature of the surface of the 
body, so that forms both with smooth and warty wall may find their place in the family.’’ (Hertwig, 


Op. cit, D. 35.) 
DIAGNOSTIC SYNOPSIS OF FAMILIES OF HEXACTINLE (modified from Hertwig).* 
A. Tentacles forming simple wreath. 


a. Digitate. 
b. Pedal disk absent. 


c. Siphonoglyphs and sphincter obscure 
bb. Pedal disk present. 


d. Acontia present, sphincter mesodermal, cuticular coverings 


Without conchttlasya. von eee tee ILYANTHIDAS. 
With conchtllas sem a. tte SIPHONACTINID4. 


Absent. .SAGARTIID4}. 
Present . . PHELLIIDA}. 


ADSENE. F. oc. thon eee en. ANTHEOMORPHIDA. 
Weakly 20 Stasiata eee ee ACTINIIDA. 
dd. Acontia absent, sphincter |seons entodermaletice o.2. 0s aie BuNopDID&. 
Present{ Strong mesodermal............ PARACTID4}, 

 Mesodermal transverse axis 
elongated fii) Sen AMPHIANTHID4E. 

aa. Tentacles abnormal in shape. 

énClavate sknobbed. steashr arias seks violas Gri mcd <r tonnes HETERACTIDAS. 
@epmenlaced: by, Stontidial.. 5 We dates wore fai een os Sikh sate a Ste crete LIPONEMIDA. 
See ERADE RING OF: DUSILY.4 apices s eats, Valea nat aie oie igs a. bee ee emma 
THALASSIANTHID}. 
B. Tentacles form double or multiple wreaths. . 0.00.60... 2 cece cece eee oees CoRALLIMORPHIDA. 


@Cf. Challenger Report, vol. xxv, pt. 73, D. 7. 


236 BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES. 


DIAGNOSTIC SYNOPSIS OF FAMILIES OF HEXACTINL® (adapted from McMurrich).% 


A. Tentacles in cyles—Actinine. 
a. Column simple. 
b. Tentacles cylindrical, smooth. 


‘ Mesenteries not numerousiri. cerca re HALCAMPID AS. 
Ceppniaciet sbes as bRiert hy NUMETOUSN IAL Me toe ae Perth ANTHEIDA. 
ce. Sphincter entodermal; tentacles deciduous. “2207.0 ee ete eee ee BOLOCERIDA}. 
A Acontia absént osu ioet arg e ees be ee een ee PARACTIDA}. 
SRN E EG mesodermal °°" tia presentinae?; aii OR Peeves ein ee SAGARTUDA. 
cecc. Sphincter entodermal, circumscribed{ 70728! deeltores "Tulasi A cpiegtel Wh sees BEN O rE 
crorhiagi folate: Mere. PHYLLACTIDA}. 
Bh. Tentacles warty or Granched ae BS ORTAY treble ee stated iat staats, wry raat eee HETERACTIDZ}.. 
Eerpeetd as a eens ee ere eo cee THALASSIANTHIDAS.. 
BH top tacles reddced to ene { a idigis dibapgied SON othe wclbNa a Gk re ty ea al chee he ee POLYOPIDA.. 
2 oso Wi win Choon Aatoletpl et a sae lait Rae NEG Cet a CREE SICYONID4S. 
aa. Column in upper part with branched or globular processes. ............... DENDROMELID&:.. 
B. Tentacles radially arranged—Stychodacylinide. 
Few)Capitateso.1 ci: leita smorten. vn dice Rae eee tee CORALLIMORPHIDAS. 
a. Tentacles'of ane form, Numerous, cylindrical7; 3.5.4 snes eh eee ee DISCOSOMIDA.. 
Nodulated es erg eae iene nee RN ae ee ea ome AURELIANID&.. 
Marginal cylindrical, disk tentacles wartlike, branched 
aa, Tentacles of two'forms, or idliat@2s...2 bee ee see ee ee RHODACTID... 
Marginal pinnate, disk tentacles wartlike........... PHYMANTHID4}. 
aaa. Lentacles of various forins, not cylindrical... - se ee ete ee re ee CRIPTODENDRID/S.. 


METRIDIUM Oken, 1815. 


Metridium dianthus (Ellis), Oken. [Text fig. 1.] 


Actinia dianthus Ellis, Phil. Trans., vol. 57, 1767. 
Metridiwm dianthus Oken, Lehrb. der Naturgesch., 181s. 
Actinia marginata Lesueur, Jour. Nat. Sci., Phil., vol. 1, p. 172, 1817. 
Metridium marginatum Milne-Edwards, Hist. Nat. des Cor., vol. 1, p. 254, 1857. 
Actinia marginata I,. Agassiz, Cont. Nat. Hist. U.S., vol. m1, 1860. 
Actinoloba dianthus Gosse, Brit. Sea Anem., p. 12, 1860. 
Metridium fimbriatum Verrill, Mem. Boston Soc. Nat. His., vol. 1, 1864. 
marginatum Verrill, Inv. An. Vineyard Sound, p. 444, 1874. 
dianthus McMurrich, Ann. N. Y. Acad. Sci., vol. xtv, 1901, p. 3. ‘Torrey, Proc. Wash. Acad. Sci., vol. rv, 
1902, 
(For full details of synonymy, see Andres, 1883.) 


, 


This beautiful actinian, often designated as the “fringed sea anemone,”’ is altogether the most. 
common and at the same time the most conspicuous of our actinian fauna. It abounds almost every- 
where from New York to Nova Scotia, from tide pools to a depth of 75 fathoms and beyond, and is one 
of the largest anemones of the region. 

It is a remarkably variable species. This pertains to almost every aspect of the creature—size,. 
color, habitat, structure, mode of propagation, etc. In distribution it seems to be almost cosmopolitan, 
being found upon both the eastern and western coasts of America, and variously over the European 
coasts.0 It may be doubted whether another of its relatives has a range of distribution at all comparable. 


aCf. Proceedings U. S. National Museum, vol. xvI, p. 134. 
bIn identifying the local species with M. dianthus of Oken, I am but following several well-known authorities, especially 
McMurrich, vide supra. 


ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION. 237 


It may not be out of place to briefly glance at certain features of variation more or less common. 
In color it varies from yellowish brown, which is the more common, to orange, pink, white, or various 
combinations of these, in stripes, mottlings, etc. McMurrich has pointed out an apparent tendency in 
the coloration to assume some three types, brown, orange or salmon, and white, and has suggested a 
correlation as to age, modes of reproduction, etc. 

Parker (1897) has also proposed similar suggestions as to this’ and other aspects of variation. 

Duerden, whose work on Anthozoa is well known, has in a recent paper suggested the influence of 
light as a factor affecting color varieties. 

In a still more recent paper Torrey (1902) has undertaken to ascertain more certainly the factors 
concerned in this and other aspects of variation, especially as it relates to this species along the Pacific 
coast. He concludes that as yet it is impossible to ascribe it to any definite known cause. 

Body cylindrical, smooth, capable of a high degree of contractility; disk well defined, with distinct 
marginal lobes which are abundantly supplied with short, pointed tentacles.? In full expansion this 
actinian is a most exquisite creature, beautiful and plant like, and meriting the title ‘‘the fringed 
anemone,’’ often applied to it. The disk is smooth and more or less concave. Mouth rather prominent, 
with corrugated, or tuberculate- 
lips, and with well-marked cesopha- 
geal grooves, often with but one, 
and more rarely with three or 
several. Parker has directed par- 
ticular attention to this feature of 
variation, as has also Torrey. 
(Cf. op. cit., supra.) 

As an explanation of this fea- 
ture the suggestion has been made 
that it may have its origin in the 
process of fission, often involved 
in asexual reproduction. Torrey 
doubts the validity of this view. 
In text figure 1 is shown a careful 
drawing of one of these twin 
anemones in process of fission. A 
brief reference has been made in an earlier connection to this aspect of reproduction. In this connection 
may also be noted the process known as fragmentation, the origination of small individuals by a sort of 
budding process of portions of the margin of the pedal disk. Thisis frequently observed in specimens in 
the aquarium, but I have found it occurring also in specimens taken from piles about the docks, making 
it quite certain that it is not due to any unusual or abnormal conditions. 

The pedal disk is strongly adhesive and capable of being used as an organ of locomotion, the creature 
creeping with a slow, snail-like movement from place to place. The mesenteries are abundantly 
supplied with acontia, which are protruded in profusion from both the mouth and through cinclides 
when a specimen is irritated. The sphincter is mesogleal and strongly developed, enabling the creature 
to contract in a most remarkable degree. Mesenteries very numerous in adult specimens and more or 
less variable as to number and arrangement. 

Distribution and habitat: As has already been pointed out, the range of this species is very wide. 
It may be doubted whether any other known species has quite so remarkable a distribution. It is 
found abundantly throughout the region of Woods Hole and along the entire New England coast. Its 
habitat is in keeping with the range of distribution. It abounds in tide pools, upon rocks, piles, shells, 
alge, etc. 


Fic. 1.—Metridium dianthus. Specimen in process of fission. 


@ Tentacles of inner or oral series larger, attentuate in form, and often marked by transverse bars or rings of opaque whitish 
color. 


17328°—14——3 


238 BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES. 


HALCAMPA Gosse, 1858. 
Halcampa farinacea (Verrill), Andres. 


Edwardsia farinacea Verrill, Am. Jour. Sci., vol. 42, 1866, p. 118; Inv. An. Vineyard Sound, 1873, p. 510, 739. 
Halcampa farinacea Andres, Fauna u. Flora Golfes Neapel, bd. rx. Parker, Am. Nat., vol. XxXxIV, 1900, p. 750. 

This species has been reported by Verrill as occurring off Gay Head in 19 fathoms. Its chief range, 
however, seems to be north of Cape Cod. The present writer has not taken it in the Woods Hole region. 
The following brief description is chiefly compiled from that of Verrill (vide supra): ‘‘It is a cylindrical 
species, about an inch long, and from o.1o to 0.12 inch in diameter, remarkable for having only 12 
tentacles, which are equal, unusually short, thick, and blunt.’’ Tentacles rather translucent, with 
transverse bars on inner side of brownish bands or spots. Alternating with these are bars or spots 
yellowish or white. Disk pale yellow, varied with small brown spots, mostly forming radial rows from 
mouth to tentacles. 

Habitat: Found only on muddy bottoms. 


EPIZOANTHUS Gray, 1867. 
Epizoanthus americanus Verrill. 


Zoanthus parasiticus Verrill, Mem. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., vol. 1, 1864, p. 34. 
Epizoanthus papillosus Gray, Proc. Zool. Soc. Lond., 1867, p. 237. 
americanus Verrill, Am. Jour. Sci., 2d ser., 1871, p. 361; Inv. An. Vineyard Sd., 1873, p. 446, 510; Bull. Mus, 
Comp. Zool., vol x1, 1833, D. 60. 
paguriphilus Verrill, Am. Jour. Sci., 1882, p. 137; Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool., vol. x1, p. 61. 
parasiticus Hertwig, Rept. Chal. Exp., vol. v1, 1882, p. 116. 


This interesting actinian is one of very few among our fauna having a definitely colonial habit. 
The species has a rather extended range of distribution, as may be inferred from the above list of refer- 
ences, and the recorded localities from Maine to Maryland. It is also more or less abundant, Verrill 
reporting “many thousands of specimens taken off Nantucket, Marthas Vineyard,’’ etc. Its range of 
depth seems to be from 25 to 4oo or more fathoms. The species, while most familiar in association with 
the hermit crab, has apparently considerable variability as to habitat. Verrill has reported them as 
in some cases investing the tubes of Hyalincecia, in others forming a similar investment of stems or 
branches of Paramuricia grandis. ‘Those taken in the Woods Hole region have all been associated with 
hermit crabs. Several species have been described, among them E. parasiticus, E. papillosus, E. ameri- 
canus, E. paguriphilus, etc.; but it is safe to say that among these several are identical. And it may 
be doubted if of the entire list herein referred to there is hardly more than varietal distinction, the 
variation expressing for the most part the influence of the varying habitats of the examples concerned. 

The many excellent figures of the species easily available in the reports of Verrill, Hertwig, and 
others, obviate any special necessity for a duplication in this report. 


PARACTIS Milne-Edwards, 1857. 


The genus was established by Milne-Edwards and has been distinguished by the following char- 
acters, given in merest outline: Body smooth, devoid of papilla or marginal spherules, numercus longi- 
tudinal furrows on the column; tentacles of about the same size and character. 


Paractis rapiformis (Lesueur). 


Actinia rapiformis Lesueur, Jour. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phil., 1817, vol. 1. 

Paractis rapiformis Milne-Edwards, Hist. Nat. des Corallaires, 1857, p. 249. 

Actinia rapiformis Verrill, Mem. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., vol. 1, 1864, p. 35. 

Paractis rapiformis Verrill, Inv. An. Vineyard Sound, 1873, p. 363, 738; Am. Jour. Sci., vol. m, p. 436. Andres, Le 
Attinie, Fauna u. Flora Golfes Neapel, bd. 1x 1883, p. 262. McMurrich, Stud, Biol. Lab. Johns Hopkins Univ., vol. 
IV, D. 62. 

Ammophilactis rapiformis Verrill, Am. Jour. Sci., 1899, vol. v0, p. 213. Parker, Am. Nat., 1900, vol. XXXIV, D. 753. 


This species has not been taken by the present writer but is known to occur within the region. 
According to Verrill, its distribution ranges from North Carolina to Long Island Sound. The following 
brief description is taken from that of Verrill and may serve as a summary of-the chief characters of the 


ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION. 239 


species: “ Surface nearly smooth, slightly sulcated lengthwise, color pale flesh color, or pink, translucent. 
Tentacles numerous, short, tapering, pale greenish olive, with dark band around the base, connecting 
with a dark line radiating from mouth.’’ To this the author adds that its size when extended is 3 or 4 
inches long, by about 1 inch in diameter. 


BICIDIUM L. Agassiz, 1859. 
Bicidium parasitica Agassiz [text fig. 2]. 


Bicidium parasitica L,. Agassiz, Proc. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., vol. vu, 1859, p. 24; Verrill, Mem. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., 
vol. 1, 1864, p. 31; E. C. and A. Agassiz, Sea-side Nat. Hist., 1865, p. 15. 

Peachia parasitica Verrill, Proc. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., vol. x, 1866, p. 338; Inv. An. Vineyard Sd., 1874, p. 739. 

Philomedusa parasitica Andres, Le Attinie, 1884, p. 112. 

Though reported by Agassiz and Verrill as more or less common in its relation as a parasite or com- 
mensal on Cyanea arctica, the writer has not found it on any specimens taken at Woods Hole. Verrill 
also reports it as having been found buried in gravel at low water at Eastport, Me. So far as I am aware, 
it has not been reported south of Cape Cod. Not having seen living specimens of the species the follow- 
ing description is compiled in part from the accounts of Agassiz and Verrill, and in 
part from specimens loaned by Mr. George M. Gray, who collected them at Eastport, 
Me. The figure was drawn from these specimens. 

Figures of the shape as given differ somewhat, that of A. Agassiz showing a rather 
large oral end, and tapering to a rather small rounded point at the aboral. Accord- 
ing to Verrill, it is more nearly barrel shaped. The size is about 35 mm. in length 
by about 10 mm. in largest diameter. Body with longitudinal furrows and “‘trans- 
verse wrinkles, by means of which it fastens itself securely among the fluted mem- 
branes around the mouth of the jellyfish.’’ It is said to live for some time in confine- 
ment, where it attaches itself “‘for its whole length to the vessel in which it is kept, 
and clinging quite firmly if any attempt is made to remove it.’’ This mode of 
adherence may be taken to imply the presence of such suckers as are more or less 
common in several other species of actinians. According to Verrill, it resembles 
very closely species of Peachia as described by Gosse. 


ANEMONIA Risso, 1826. 


Anemonia sargassensis Hargitt. [Pl. x11, fig. 3.] 


Anemonia sargassensis Hargitt, Biological Bulletin, vol. x1v, p. 117, 1908. 


Fic. 2.—Bicidiwm 
parasiticum. 


This anemone was briefly described in a recent note (vide supra), and some refer- 
ence made to its habitat. Several other points call for further elucidation. Figure 
3 of plate x11 shows well the general aspects of the creature and its mode of attachment to the 
gulf weed which forms apparently its chief or only habitat. The figure was made from life and 
gives approximately the color and aspects of average specimens. The base is adapted to clasping 
the stems of the weed to which it adheres with great tenacity. It is also able to creep along 
from place to place by means of the disk, though it does this only occasionally. A specimen in 
the aquarium was observed to remain in one identical spot for more than 3o hours. Another 
feature, more or less rare, is that of inflating the pedal disk, and thus making of it a float by means 
of which the creature may drift oral end downward, indefinitely. Duerden (1902) reports a similar 
habit in Bunodosoma spherulata, Bunodeopsis antilliensis, and cites observations of Duchassaing and 
Michelotti of a similar trait in Cystiactis eugenia. I have occasionally observed the same thing in 
several other actinians, but only in the artificial conditions of the aquarium; and it may not yet be 
improbable that this has something to do with the performance, yet its occurrence in nature may not 
be unusual. (Cf. also Gosse on this feature, p. 144.) 


240 BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES. 


In 1833 Quoy et Gaimard, Voyage de 1’Astrolabe (Zoologie, t. 1v, p. 146), described a species, 
Anemonia pelagica, having several points in common with that here under discussion; for example, 
its pelagic habitat, ‘“‘Trouvée sur des fucus au milieu de 1’Ocean Atlantique;’’ also the prehensile 
nature of the tentacles. Their description is, however, very vague and Andres regards the species as. 
doubtful. Moreover, as compared with A. sargassensis it has many points of difference, such as color, 
number of tentacles, etc. (Cf. Milne-Edwards et Haime, Histoire Naturelle des Corallaires, t. 1, p. 235). 

The following may be regarded as diagnostic characters: Column short and rather broad, in about 
the relation of 1 to 2, more or less fluted; pedal disk well developed and adapted to clasping stems 
of the weed; oral disk marked by radiating lines of flake white, or cream-colored lines varying in size 
and extending upon bases of tentacles; tentacles cylindrical, long and tapering, but slightly contractile, 
of various sizes and disposition about the margin of the disk; tentacles highly prehensile, and more or 
less adhesive, both of which characters seem of great importance as a means of catching prey, and in 
locomotion; tentacles variable in number, from 25 to 30 in smaller specimens to 50 in larger, and from 
5 to 15 mm. in length, inner series nearly twice diameter of disk; in several cases bifurcated tentacles 
were observed. ‘Tactile sense highly developed in larger tentacles. 

Dimensions of body: An average of about 5 to 6 mm. high by 9 mm. in diameter. Color is various, 
though light brownish to chestnut or olivaceous tints are predominant. These with the whitish lines 
of disk and tentacles give a simulation to the color of the Sargassum in a most remarkable degree, so 
much so that unless careful scrutiny is made the specimens are certain to be overlooked. ‘This 
feature they seem to share in common with many of the Sargassum fauna. ; 

Acontia seem to be entirely lacking, no amount of irritation being able to secure their discharge; 
subsequent sections likewise failed to reveal their presence. 

Primary mesenteries, six pairs (see pl. x11, fig. 3). . The figure was drawn from a small specimen, 
and the secondary mesenteries are only slightly developed. Directives quite well marked as shown. 

Sphincter very weak or lacking, rendering contraction slight, in no case sufficient to withdraw the 
tentacles or wholly cover the oral disk. Body quite smooth, except for the slight vertical fluting 
referred to above; no tubercles cr marginal spherules. 


SAGARTIA Gosse, 1858. 


According to Hertwig (Challenger Rept., vol. v1, pt. Xv, p. 72), the genus Sagartia should be limited 
to those ‘‘Sagartide with smooth wall and numerous powerful tentacles arranged in several rows; without 
anatomically perceptible sinclides.’’ This definition excludes several forms which have been hitherto 
usually referred to this genus, among them at least one of our local species, namely, S. leucolena, which 
has been referred by Andres to the genus Cylisia. 


Sagartia modesta Verrill. [Pl. xu, fig. 5, 6; xxi, fig. 7.] 


Sagartia modesta Verrill, Proc. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., vol. x, 1866, p. 337; Inv. An. Vineyard Sound, 1874, pp. 330, 738. 
Andres, Fauna u. Flora Golfes Neapel, bd. 1x. Parker, Am. Nat., vol. xXxXxIV, 1900. 

Body elongate, cylindrical, in expansion about five times longer than in diameter. Pedal disk 
more or less evident, effective as an organ of adhesion, by means of which it attached itself to a rock or 
other substratum. This may be best observed in a small aquarium, or by careful examination of speci- 
mens when first taken from the normal habitat, adherent to some supporting base. Tentacles are 
numerous, from 60 to roo, more or less marginal in several rows; they are slender and tapering, about twice 
the length of the diameter of oral disk, or perhapsslightly more. Colorof tentacles pale grayish or greenish, 
with dark lateral spots near the base, and with lighter bars or bands toward the distal portion, inter- 
spersed with whitish bands or spots (pl. xin, fig. 6). Oral disk yellowish or white, with darker radial 
lines; mouth with 15 to 20 rather prominent liplike folds. General color more or less variable; column 
pale flesh color. When first taken from the water or sand the body is often covered with a sheath 
of mucous and adherent sand grains. Acontia extruded over various portions of body, but without 
evident cinclides. 


ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION. 241 


Habitat: The species has been found by me only in burrows on sandy and pebbly beaches usually 
just about or slightly below low-tide line, and always attached to a smooth cobblestone. Inthe aquarium 
it will adhere to almost any smooth support, or even the sides or bottom of the dish or aquarium. 

Distribution: The species is accounted rather rare. This may be due in part to the burrowing 
habit and to the close simulation in color of the tentacles and oral disk as they appear at the mouth of 
the burrow, rendering difficult its detection unless one looks for it with some care. But I have not 
found it in any such numbers as to suggest it as a common or abundant species. Verrill reports its 
distribution from Long Island Sound to Vineyard Sound. I have also taken it in Buzzards Bay adjacent 
to Woods Hole. 


Sagartia luciz Verrill. [Pl. x11, fig. 1 and 2.] 


Sagartia lucie Verrill, Am. Jour. Sci., 4th, vol. v1, 1898, p. 493. Parker, Am. Nat.,vol. xxxIv, 1900; ibid., vol. xxxvI, 
1902, p. 491. Davenport, Mark Mem. Vol. 

This beautiful little actinian, formerly a stranger to the fauna of Woods Hole, is now one of the most 
abundant of the littoral species, occurring almost everywhere—on rocks, eelgrass, fucus, shells, piles, 
etc. Itisasmall species, varying from 10 to 18 mm. in height, by about 4 to6mm.in diameter. The 
body is smooth and highly contractile, dull olive greenish in color, with a variable number of vertical 
yellowish or orange stripes. Tentacles rather numerous, from 25 to 50, in several illy defined whorls, 

_long and delicate, and very contractile, pale greenish, sometimes tinged with whitish. Oral disk vari- 
able as to shape and color; usually flat or concave, greenish, or sometimes with darker radial lines, and 
often with conspicuous bars at base of directive tentacles. It will more often be observed that only a 
single baris present. This is due to the fact that a common mode of fission, to be mentioned later, often 
leaves but one of these bars apparent. Acontia freely extruded through body or mouth. 

Reproduction: At certain times sexual propagation is active, and in his original description Verrill 
states that young embryos might be seen swimming in the cavity of the translucent tentacles. One 
may also find at certain times in sections of the animal the inclusion in the mesenteries of genital cells. 
So far as my own observation has gone, however, another mode seems to be of more general occurrence— 
an asexual one, namely, fission. I have repeatedly observed this process in all stages at almost any 
time during midsummer. It is not difficult, indeed, to observe the process from its inception to com- 
pletion, for it goes forward with surprising rapidity, the entire operation occupying from two to three 
hours, probably often less time. This is most easily studied in small aquaria, or even finger bowls or 
other glass dishes capable of holding a pint or a liter of water. 

Unlike the process which has been described for Metridium and a few other species, in which fission 
begins at the mouth or oral disk and proceeds vertically downward, in S. lucie the very opposite direction 
is the one invariably followed, at least so far as Ihave observed. ‘The first evidence of such fission may 
be noted in an extension of the pedal disk in a plane parallel with the oral axis. If this extension is to 
initiate the process of fission there will soon be distinguishable the appearance of a constriction of this 
elongated disk and the organization of a sort of double foot, in which may be seen the radial arrangements 
of the proximal ends of the mesenteries. The stretching of the disk is followed by a corresponding con- 
dition of the walls of the column, a condition which will soon be seen to involve the entire body and oral 
disk. Careful observation will show a gradual thinning of the basal disk as the stretching goes on more 
and more, and sooner or later the actual rupture of the bottom of the disk, a rent appearing and passing 
in a direction at right angles to the oral axis. When thisis clearly underway the pulling of the opposite 
halves of the body continues with increased vigor, and the rent may be followed in an upward and ver- 
tical direction, which enables the observer to actually see the inner organs, mesenteries, acontia, etc. 
A most curious phenomenon may be seen occasionally as the process continues, namely, as the pulling 
and consequent tearing proceeds there will occasionally be witnessed the explosion and shooting out of 
acontia, apparently in response to the physical stimulus involved in the rending of the tissues. It.is as 
if at certain times the pulling was too vigorous and the consequent ‘“‘hurt’’ more than the creature could 
stand with equanimity, and the extrusion of the acontia the expression of protest on the part of the 


242 BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES. 


injured tissues. The process goes on usually without interruption till the fission has separated the 
basal portion completely, the last rupture of the lateral threads occurring with a more or less sudden 
break and the prompt contraction of the free ends. 

The upward fission is fairly rapid, and soon the oral disk and mouth become involved in the opera- 
tion. The fission is almost invariably finished upon one side at a time; that is, one half seems to yield 
more readily than the other, and the rending of the tissues of that side may be complete as much asa 
half hour before that of the other. Indeed, it would seem as if there was something of arrest in the vigor 
of the pulling when the fission had completed itself throughout one half. As the process of either side 
approaches completion the last vestige of the oral disk becomes spun out into a delicate thread 5 or 6 
mm. or more long, in a tremendous state of tension, the final rupture of which takes place with a more 
or less sudden rebound of the ends and sides of the body. The final rupture of the other side seems to 
take place more slowly, but is soon accomplished, when the two halves of the divided actinian assume 
a more or less erect aspect, fold the edges inward until the opposite edges approximate and finally unite 
and gradually heal over, each becoming an independent individual. The healing and internal adjust- 
ments would seem to be much slower than the fission, appearing to require for completion a day or two, 
perhaps more in some cases. 

That this process of propagation is a normal one and of general occurrence during the summer can 
hardly be doubted. The immense colonies which may often be found on a given stone, or on a shell of 
Mytilus, could hardly have happened thus by other mode. Furthermore, when one seeks for perfectly 
symmetrical specimens in a state of nature they are difficult to find. The figure shown in plate x11, made 
from a living specimen, illustrates the asymmetry in the single white line connecting the directive ten- 
tacle of only one side. But this is not all. Sections of the body show the asymmetry to involve the 
whole internal organization—mesenteries, siphonoglyphes, etc. 

In most cases the species is normally diglyphic; but during the season of asexual propagation this 
feature is more or less obscured or disguised. Further reference to figure 1 will make this point more 
evident. I have occasionally found triglyphic individuals, but they are rather unusual. One such 
was observed undergoing fission, and in this case the process involved very nearly an exact third of the 
parent body, leaving an unsymmetrical diglyphic specimen. I was somewhat curious to see whether 
a fission into three individuals at once might not occur, but this did not happen; and though the speci- 
men was followed during two or three succeeding days there was no indication of further fission. 

Carlgren (1904) in a recent paper has described experiments and observations on several species 
of actinians which have interesting features in common with those herein described. On page 77 he 
gives some account of fission found occurring in nature, and certain of his figures might be duplicated 
by this phenomenon in S. lucia (e. g., fig. 6, 24, 25, 26, 27, taf. 1 and 1.) 

The mesenteries of this species vary greatly in number and arrangement. I had the privilege of 
looking over a large number of sections made by Mr. D. W. Davis, who has been engaged in experiments 
upon it, and sought in vain for a single case of what might be regarded as typical hexamerous symmetry. 

Distribution: The species was first described by Verrill in 1898. It was first observed at New 
Haven about 1892, and was then quite rare. Within the past ro years, to the personal knowledge of the 
writer, the occurrence of the species at Woods Hole has passed from a condition of comparative rarity to 
one of extreme abundance. A brief paper by Parker (1902) gives a succinct account of its dispersal along 
the coast since its first occurrence about New Haven. Apparently the same species has been recently 
found at Plymouth, England (1908), and a few brief comments made to the effect that instead of having 
got its introduction into our region and spread from that as a center, the fact would seem to be that 
it had found distribution from some unknown source and had been simultaneously scattered and estab- 
lished in several remote localities. Mr. Davis has recorded the species at San Francisco, and states that 
its identity with S. lucie seems beyond question. I looked in vain for it at South Harpswell, Me., 
in 1909.2 


a The writer identified this species at Naples in 1911, having the same distinctive features of structure, color, mode of fission, 
etc. This would seem to show that it is probably very widely distributed over the shallower seas. 


ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION. 243 


Habitat: Very general. It seems to find itself at home almost anywhere—on rocks in tide guts, 
brackish ponds, upon eelgrass, on living shells of Mytilus, among colonies of Molgula and Cynthia, and 
others too numerous to mention. 


Sagartia abyssicola Verrill. 


Sagartia abyssicola Verrill, Am. Jour. Sci., vol. xxm, 1882, p. 314; Bull. Mus. Com. Zool., vol. x1, 1883, p. 45. Parker, 
Am, Nat., vol. xxxIVv, 1900. 


Assuming a valid significance in the name of this species, its habitat might seem to carry it easily 
beyond the scope of this report. It has, however, become so familiar from recent collections, and from 
depths in no sense abyssal, that it seems very proper to make at least a brief record of its occurrence. 

In view of the excellent descriptions and figures given by Verrill (vide supra), there is no occasion 
for attempting anything of the sort here. Its more usual habitat is the tubes of the annelid, Hyalinecia 
artifax, but it is occasionally found attached to stones, shells, ete. When brought up in the dredge it 
is almost invariably contracted into a low conical lump, resembling more or less a small Metridium in 
a state of close contraction. The tentacles are numerous, longer than the diameter of the body, slender, 
and tapering. Acontia are numerous and protruded freely. The color is usually a dull brown in pre- 
served specimens. 

Distribution: Various records show it to be more or less common along much of the coast line, at 
depths of 50 to 60 fathoms and beyond. 


CYLISTA Gosse, 1860. 


Cylista leucolena Verrill. [Pl. xxm, fig. 8.] 


Sagartia leucolena Verrill, Proc. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., vol. x, 1866, p. 336; Inv. An. Vineyard Sound, 1874, pp. 329, 
738; Am. Jour. Sci., 4th, vol. vi, 1898, p. 495. 
Cylista leucolena Andres, Fauna u. Flora Golfes Neapel, bd. tx, p. 151. Parker, Am. Nat., vol. xxxIVv, 1900. 

This species is common and abundant throughout the region, but its small size and retiring habits 
tend to render its presence more or less obscure or even unknown. 

The following characteristics may be regarded as diagnostic. Body elongated, cylindrical even in 
contraction, smooth, or with minute papille disposed in scattered but more or less vertical rows. Pedal 
disk well developed, by means of which the creature may adhere tenaciously to almost any object, 
and also serving as a means of locomotion. Oral disk concave, mouth with about ro pairs of corruga- 
tions, or lips, which are of a brownish color. Body translucent, enabling one to observe the mesen- 
teries which appear as whitish longitudinal lines within the body. Tentacles rather numerous, 40 to 60 
or more, in some three series, the inner longest, all delicate, attenuate at tips. Color ustially delicate 
pinkish or flesh color to almost white, sometimes with a greenish tinge, especially near oral end and 
bases of tentacles when contracted ;4 tentacles whitish, often greenish at basal ends. Size variable 
according to age, the average being about 30 to 4o mm. in height by about 5 or 6 mm. in diameter. 

In a few points this description does not wholly agree with that of Verrill. For example, the size 
ranges somewhat smaller, Verrill giving the height as from 50 to 65 mm. Again, his statement that 
“one of the primary tentacles in the longitudinal plane opposite one end of the mouth is much longer 
than the others, and often differently colored than the others,’’ I was not able to confirm, except in a 
rare specimen now and then. Surely it can not be regarded as a diagnostic feature. It was not unusual 
to find at certain times that one or even several of the tentacles of the inner series might become more 


@ Occasionally an interesting variety of this species is found, distinguished by a marked color difference, specimens being 
bright or deeply orange colored. A few specimens were taken at Woods Hole and at first taken to be a new species; but a study 
of sections failed to show any structural distinction of consequence. 

Later I received from Miss Anna Luther, of Jersey City, several living specimens which had been taken at Bay Shore, Long 
Island, and all of the same distinct orange coloration. At this locality the orange color predominates, only an occasional specimen 
of the white variety occurring. They are quite hardy and live in a balanced aquarium for months if occasionally fed. In this 
they are quite like the white variety of Woods Hole. So far as I am aware this marked color distinction has not hitherto been 
pointed out. 


244 BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES. 


or less specialized at times, apparently serving as tactile organs, being greatly extended and vigorously 
vibrated in various directions. Figure 8, plate x_m, will give a good general impression of the 
appearance of the animal. 

Habitat: More or less common on rocky or gravelly beaches adhering to the under side of rocks, 
or in crevices; also found among masses of ascidians on piles of docks, and among colonies of sponges, 
worm tubes, etc. It is quite susceptible-to light and invariably seeks shaded or protected localities. 
They are much more commonly found under stones along rocky beaches than elsewhere. They are 
readily adaptable to an aquarium habitat, living in apparently normal vigor for several weeks if some 
care be taken to provide fairly good water and occasionally some shreds of meat, as bits of shrimp or 
clam, etc. In this habitat it is quite easy to study the habits of the organism to one’s content. Else- 
where I have given some account of their behavior in relation to light intensity, ete. Specimens occa- 
sionally adopt a burrowing habit and secrete themselves in sand. 

Reproduction: This seems to be wholly of the sexual sort. During several years of fairly close obser- 
vations I have never seen the slightest indications of budding or fission. Furthermore, the sexes seem 
to be quite distinct. I have repeatedly undertaken to study the development of the species, but have 
found it difficult to secure ripe males and females at the same time. Only once have I succeeded in 
getting early traces of cleavage. Whether the transfer of specimens to the aquarium tends to check the 
reproductive function I am uncertain. I haverepeatedly had eggsdeposited in the dishes, and inafew 
cases sperms were deposited at the same time, but in only one instance have normal fertilization and 
development followed. I have had a similar experience with other actinians, e. g., Metridiwm, and am 
disposed to regard the transfer to an artificial condition as tending to check or modify the sexual activity. 
An examination of sperms obtained under these circumstances showed them to be quite active and appar- 
ently normal; but attempts to fertilize eggs liberated at the same time seldom gave any response. 

Distribution: This is given by Verrill as from North Carolina to Cape Cod. I have taken them in 
Long Island Sound and in Vineyard Sound, Buzzards Bay, etc.—a fairly abundant species throughout 
the entire region. 

TEALIA Gosse, 1858. 


Tealia crassicornis Muller. [Text fig. 3 and 4.] 


Actinia crassicornis Muller, 1776; Gmelin, 1788, 1793, 1798; Johnston, Hist. Brit, Zooph., 1847, p. 226. 
Rhodactinia davisii Agassiz, Compt. Rend., 1847, p. 677; Verrill, Mem. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., vol. 1, 1864, p. 18. 
Bunodes crassicornis Gosse, Ann. Nat. Hist., 1855, D. 294. 
Tealia crassicornis Gosse, ibid., 1858, p. 417; Actinologia Britannica, 1860, p. 209. 

Andres, Fauna u. Flora Golfes v. Neapel, bd. 1x, p. 199. 

The synonomy of this species is extremely intricate and confusing. It may be doubted whether 
in the entire literature of Actiniaria a more complicated case can be found. This may be due in part 
to the highly variable external features, which have been so largely taken by the early naturalists as 
diagnostic. No attempt has been made to present more than the briefest outline in the above list. 
To those who are concerned as to this feature fuller details may be found in the masterful work of Andres 
(vide supra). 

In connection with the above reference to the variable aspects of the species it may be well to cite 
certain facts. For example, Verrill had long ago pointed out this feature, saying ‘‘in form it is very 
mutable, both ends being capable of great distension or contraction. It will often assume a variety of 
the most diversified forms within a very few minutes.’’ As to color he makes similar reference: “‘ Deep 
crimson, mottled with pink; littoral specimens most commonly of a clear bluish-green color, irregularly 
blotched with crimson or reddish brown.’’ The specimens taken by me, though comparatively few, 
have shown similar variability, especially as to coloration. I have not observed the extreme variation 
of form mentioned by Verrill. It should be stated, however, that my specimens were mostly of small 
size, and being dredged from a depth of some 20 fathoms were more or less contracted, only a few of them 
living long after being taken and these apparently not extending fully in the aquarium. 


ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION. 245 


- In only a few instances have representatives of the species been taken in the region. On two occa- 
‘sions I have taken specimens at Crab Ledge, off Chatham, Mass.; another specimen was taken by .Dr. 


Sumner, late in the summer of 1907, off 
Gay Head, which was presumably of this 
species, though unfortunately was not 
preserved. 

The following may be taken as fairly 
diagnostic characters: Column generally 
smooth, or with slight papillose bodies vari- 
ously disposed over the body, more par- 
ticularly on the upper portion, and in the 
specimen there was a marginal series of 
spherular bodies. Pedal disk well devel- 
oped and larger than diameter of column. 
Oral disk well defined and with darker 
radial lines extending toward the margin. 
Tentacles rather stout, fingerlike, about 50 
in number in specimens taken by me, 
arranged in some three series. 

Sphincter strongly developed, and 
almost diagrammatically comparable with 
Hertwig’s figure of this organ for the genus. 


(Cf. fig. 4.) I regret that my material was 


found badly preserved for histological de- 
tails, so that it has been found impractica- 
ble to submit figures of other internal or- 
gans. It was not difficult to determine 
the presence of numerous mesenteries, two 
siphonoglyphes, and the appropriate di- 
rectives, as shown in text figure 3. 

Reproduction: So far as known this is 
exclusively sexual. In the cases under 
observation it was found that earlier de- 
velopment takes place within the gastric 
cavity of the adult. Several young were 
brought forth during life in the aquarium 
in a stage of perfect development, and con- 
tinued to thrive for some time. 


Fic. 3.—Tealia crassicornis. Section through two primary, and pair 
of directive mesenteries; ent, entoderm; ec, ectoderm; d, directive 
mesenteries. ‘ 


Distribution: While rather rare within the region the cases given make certain its presence as an 
integral feature of the fauna. According to Verrill, from Nantucket Shoals to Grand Manan. 


ELOACTIS Andres, 1883. 


Eloactis producta (Stimpson): [Pl. xin, fig. 4.] 


Actinia producta Stimpson, Proc. Soc. Nat. Hist., Boston, vol. v, p. 110, 1856. 
Halcampa producta Verrill, Mem. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., vol. 1, 1862, p. 30. 


albida Verrill, ibid., p. 29. 


producta Verrill, Inv. An. Vineyard Sound, 1874, pp. 330, 738. Andres, Fauna u. Flora Golfes v. Neapel, bd. 


IX, p. 106. 


Eloactis producta McMurrich, Proc. U.S. Nat. Mus., vol. xvi, 1894, pp. 141-142. 
Eloactis producta Parker, Am. Nat., vol. XXXIV, 1900. 


Andres (op..cit., p. 106) was the first to express doubt as to the exact generic relations of this 
actinian and to suggest the probable necessity of establishing a new genus. This suggestion was later 


246 BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES. 


acted upon by McMurrich (vide supra), who proposed its reference to the genus Eloactis of Andres. 
This was later followed by Parker, and following these proposals I have formally accepted this refer- 
ence. At the same time it should be said that the grounds of the proposed reference to another genus 
are not altogether conclusive. Whether a given species be hexamerous or decamerous, in view of 
the range of variation now known to prevail to considerable extent, can hardly be of great significance 
as a taxonomic feature. While the species under consideration is apparently predominently decam- 
erous, I have found considerable variation in this respect. In younger specimens the hexamerous 
condition is not at all uncommon. In several different specimens some 50 to 70 mm. in length which 
I took occasion to section and examine the hexamerous state was prevalent. In very large specimens 
the decamerous arrangement was quite as prevalent. 

The general features of the species will be fairly well shown in figure 4, plate xtm. As will be 
seen, the body is elongated, more or less cylindrical, and comprises some three distinguishable regions: 
An oral, retractile portion, or capitulum; a 
basal, bulbous portion, or pedal-like disk, 
or physa; and an intermediate portion, the 
column. This is marked by a series of 
about 20 longitudinal grooves, whose inter- 
mediate ridges are provided with numerous 
papilliform suckers, by means of which the 
creature is able to retain itself in the burrow. 
The length of the body varies greatly, aver- 
aging perhaps 100 to 150 mm. in ordinary 
life. In some cases at fullextension it may 
become twice this length (Verrill). The 
diameter also varies greatly. It probably 
averages about 8 to 10mm. ‘The tentacles 
are normally 20in number, with occasional 
variations, rather stout, with brownish knob- 
like tips. The color varies from whitish to 
pale salmon on the column, the base trans- 
lucent, with bluish tint. A white variety 
has been described under the name Hal- 
campa albida; but this is doubtless a merely 
varietal character, and in nowise entitled to 
specific distinction. 

Habitat: The species is characterized in 
a remarkable degree by the burrowing habit. 
In many years of observation I have never 
found it except in burrows on sand flats 
between tide lines. In this habitat it forms burrows wherein it lives, perhaps more or less perma- 
nently. However, it should be said that specimens in the aquarium, in which, by the way, it will 
thrive for weeks in apparent vigor, yet show a teudency to emerge from the burrows at night and to 
migrate variously about the aquarium. A further fact may not be without some significance to the 
same effect, namely, that its burrows do not become lined by a tubular product, such as is provided 
by Cerianthus. I have elsewhere (Biological Bulletin, vol. x1, p. 274) pointed out certain peculiarities 
of behavior of some significance in this connection, and also as indicating something as to modes of 
life. That it is markedly sensitive to varying degrees of light, even to the extent of distinguishing 
between light and darkness, which has rendered the species predominantly nocturnal, seems to be 
beyond doubt. 

These two features, namely, the burrowing and nocturnal habits, conspire to render its presence 
unknown by most people, except those who especially direct attention to its discovery. While more 
abundant locally than either Sagartia modesta or Edwardsia elegans it is yet far from common. 


Fic. 4.—Tealia crassicornis. Section of circular muscle (c. m.); en 
entoderm; m, mesoderm; ec, ectoderm. 


ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION. 247 


It may be suggested in this connection that the act of burrowing is effected exclusively by the 
aboral end, or physa. This is bent downward upon the sand, and then by a process of pushing, and at 
the same time a twisting motion, and by alternate contractions and expansious of the disk, the foot is 
forced downward. It is by no means a rapid process, and very differently effective by different 
individuals, as I have elsewhere shown (op. cit.). 

Distribution: Verrill reports it from South Carolina to Cape Cod. I have taken it at certain 
points in Buzzards Bay, and at Catama Bay, and elsewhere about Marthas Vineyard. Its distribution 
would seem to be more or less local, and dependent upon favorable 
conditions as to food and for burrowing, etc. 


EDWARDSIA Quatrefages, 1842. 
Edwardsia elegans Verrill. [Text fig. 5 and pl. x.iv, fig. 12.] 


Edwardsia elegans \Verrill, Am. Journ. Science, ser. 2, vol. 48, p. 118. Andres, 
Fauna u. Flora Golf. v. Neapel, vol. x, p.95. Parker, Am. Nat., vol. xxxIv, 
P. 749. 

This elegant little actinian is seldom seen except by those who dili- 
gently search for it, its burrowing habit giving it effective seclusion. 

Body elongate, comprising three more or less distinctive portions, 
namely, (1) an upper, smooth, necklike portion, of faint brownish 
color; (2) the body or column, rough from the presence of a sandy 
accretion over a tough cuticular covering; (3) a somewhat roundish 
basal portion, translucent or of slightly bluish tint. The entire body 
is marked by 8 longitudinal groovesor sulcations. Tentacles 16, rather 
short and fingerlike in moderate contraction, or long and delicately 
attenuate when fully expanded; apparently of two series, an outer, 
which is usually depressed close upon the sand at the mouth of the 
burrow; and a second, alternating series, which extend upward. In 
color the tentacles are pale brownish, with transverse bars or blotches 
whitish or pale greenish. 

Length of body in expansion 20 to 35 mm., diameter 3 to 5 mm. 
The organization of the body is shown in the sections taken through 
“the cesophageal region. (PI. xiv, fig. 12.) 

Distribution and habitat: Found generally throughout the region in 
favorable sand flats between tide lines, where it burrows. Taken at 
West Falmouth, Woods Hole, Great Pond, Falmouth, etc. 

In a paper on the ‘ Behavior of sea anemones’’ (Biological Bulletin, 
vol. xm), I have given some account of phases of activity as exhibited 
by tube-dwelling anemones. At the time this paper was prepared I 
had not been able to include any account of this species. This was 
later included in a report upon the reactions of these organisms given 
at the International Zoological Congress, Boston, 1907. It may suffice 
in this connection to say that in almost every respect the reactions and behavior of E. elegans are com- 
parable with those of Sagartia and Eloactis. 

The species lives well in aquaria and affords a favorable object upon which to observe various 
aspects of behavior. This is particularly the case with food taking and reactions to varying degrees 
of light intensity. ; 

Edwardsia sipunculoides (Stimpson) Verrill. 
Actinia sipunculoides Stimpson, Marine Inv. of Grand Manan, 1853. Edwardsia sipunculoides Verrill, Mem. Soc. Nat. 
Hist., Boston, vol.1, p. 28, 1864; Andres, Fauna u. Flora Golfes Neapel, bd.1x; Parker, Am. Nat., vol. XXXIV, 1900. 

This species has not hitherto been recorded south of Cape Cod. The writer several years ago found 

a single specimen of an Edwardsia at West Falmouth, Buzzards Bay, which was thought to be E. sipun- 


SS 


: 
ar? ST PSs rs 
—= 


= 


> 27s 
ats 4 oh 3 


oy 


=a uy 


-> 
te Bs: 


= 


ane 


Ro be. FD 
as 
tae reve 


7 =i 


Rar 
= Soe: 
‘ta 


Fic. s.—Edwardsta elegans. 


248 BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES. 


culoides, but in some way it was lost before any decisive identification was made, and hence the matter 
must remain somewhat doubtful. During the present summer (1909) I took a single specimen at South 
Harpswell, Me., of exactly the same general characters, and conforming so far as distinguishable with 
the descriptions of Stimpson and Verrill. When first dug out of the sand the specimen was about 50 to 
60 mm. in length, of whitish or pale flesh color. After it was placed in the collecting pail along with a 
few other objects it became greatly contracted and remained in that condition for more than a week in 
the laboratory, though every means available to induce it to expand was tried. Finally, before leaving 
it was killed and preserved, and later carefully sectioned in the hope of finding conclusive evidence as 
to its specific relations. Unfortunately the state of contraction had been so great that the killing proved 
to have been unsatisfactorily done, and while the main generic features were easily distinguishable it 
was not practicable to certainly determine the number of tentacles and other specific characters. So 
far as known only one other species could be possibly confused with it, namely, E. farinacea, and it 
seemed not to have been this. I am strongly convinced that the specimen was E. sipunculoides, and 
that, moreover, the one taken at Woods Hole previously was also this species. Hence it seems altogether 
proper to include the species as coming within the region. 

I much regret that I am not able to present good anatomical descriptions of the species. However, 
the earlier description of Verrill (vide supra) renders this lack less serious. 


Edwardsia lineata Verrill. 
Edwardsia lineata Verrill, Inv. An. Vineyard Sound, p. 739, 1874; Andres, Faunau. Flora v. Golf. Neapel, bd. 1x; Parker, 
Am. Nat., vol. XXXIV, 1900, p. 750. 

“Body cylindrical, elongate, covered with dirty brownish, slightly wrinkled epidermis, except 
just below tentacles, where it is smooth, translucent, and usually with eight longitudinal, flake-white 
lines showing through. ‘Tentacles 24 to 30, or more in large specimens; slender, tapering, obtuse, white 
or pale flesh color, each with a flake-white longitudinal line along inner side. Disk with white circle 
around the mouth, and often with eight or more radiating white lines extending to the base of inner 
tentacles; border of mouth somewhat pale red; naked part of column pale flesh color, often with circle 
of white below bases of tentacles. Length 25 to 30mm., diameter 2.5 to3 mm. Species remarkable in 
lacking any naked basal portion, or any true disk for attachment. This may be due to the peculiar 
habit of nestling in crevices between rocks, worm tubes, etc. Off Gay Head, 6 to 12 fathoms, among 
ascidians and annelid tubes, etc. Abundant.’’ 

I have not seen this species, and the above description has been compiled from that of Verrill.” 
Having been on constant lookout for the species for several years, it seems rather strange not to have 
obtained a single record of its occurrence. 


Edwardsia leidyi Verrill. 
Edwardsia leidyi Verrill, Am Jour. Sci., ser. 4, vol. v1, p. 493; Parker, Am. Nat., vol. xxxIv, 1900, p. 750. 


This remarkable Edwardsian was first noted by A. Agassiz as a parasite in Mnemiopsis leidyi and 
taken to be a leechlike worm. (Cf. Catalogue of North American Acalephe, p. 23.) It was later 
observed by Verrill. (Invertebrate animalsof Vineyard Sound, p. 457.) Its true character seems first 
tohave been recognized by Mark. (Memoirsof Museum Comparative Zoology, vol. 1x, p. 43.) Mark also 
pointed out the fact that this stage was a larval one, and that during this period it was a true parasite 
within the ctenophore. Following the development so far as conditions made it possible, he suggested 
that the larva might not improbably be a stage in the life history of Edwardsia lineata. To the present 
writer it seems rather more probably related to E. elegans. As evidence of this may be noted the number 
of tentacles in Mark’s oldest specimen, namely, 16, while in E. lineata the number is from 24 to 30, or 
more. Again the aspect of the tentacles is very much like that of E. elegans. 

It is much to be regretted that as yet we are without a final account of the life history, no later observer 
having been able to carry the record beyond that at which it was left by Mark. The present writer has 
sought to discover some clue to the later stages, but without success. The occurrence of the larve is 
most erratic. During some seasons it abounds to such extent that hardly a specimen of Mnemiopsis can 


ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION. 249 


be found without from one to a half dozen or more of the parasites within the canals, and during other 
summers scarcely a single specimen can be found at all. During the entire summer of 1907 the writer 
sought from June to September for larve, but without finding a trace. In November of the same year 
Mr. Vinal Edwards and Dr. Sumner found them in immense numbers, almost every ctenophore being 
infected. 

Morphology of the larval stage: Polyp slender and wormlike, and variously coiled in the canals of 
thectenophore. Lengthof larger specimens 20 to 30 mm., diameter 1 to 2 mm., varying under conditions 
of contraction. Tentacles 16 (?), color pinkish or flesh color. 


CERIANTHUS Delle Chiaje, 1841. 


Cerianthus americanus Verrill. [Pl. xuiv, fig. 10.] 
Cerianthus americanus Verrill, Mem. Boston Soc. Nat. Hist., vol. 1, 1866, p. 32; MceMurrich, Jour. Morph., vol. 1v, 1890, 
p. 131; Parker, Am. Nat., vol. XxxIV, 1900, p. 756. 

Originally described by Verrill from a southern habitat, this.species has but rarely been found at 
Woods Hole. The writer found a single specimen several years ago, but failed to secureit. Ina collec- 
tion of Edwardsia taken at Ram Island, Woods Hole, in 1902, there was found a single specimen which 
was turned over to the writer for identification. It resembled at first a specimen of Sagartia leucolena, 
or a very small specimen of S. modesta. A careful examination of the specimen, however, proved it 
to be an immature specimen of Cerianthus. The size was only about 35 mm. in length. by about 5 mm. 
in diameter, in contraction. Sections showed no signs of gonads, and there were but 45 to 50 tentacles; 
all of which go to show a condition of immaturity. The sectional figures were made from the specimen 
and leave no doubt as to its identity. 

The specimens originally described by Verrill were of very large size—z feet or more in expansion. 
McMurrich, who has studied specimens from the same general region, has not been able to confirm 
Verrill’s account as to size. Specimens examined by the writer from the Woods Hole region agree 
very closely with McMurrich’s account in this particular. His account gives the length as not more 
than 20 cm., with a diameter of 1.5 to 2 cm. 

In the matter of color there seems to be considerable variation. The specimen from which this 
account is chiefly derived was in life translucent and pale flesh color. Another specimen examined by 
the writer was brownish, especially near the oral portion, the aboral region being paler. A purplish 
tint is not unusual along with the brown. 

Habitat: This seems to be almost exclusively at or just below average tide line and in muddy 
flats. ‘The species is of burrowing habit, these burrows extending at an angle for considerable depths. 
The creature secretes a tubular lining for its burrow, which is composed of mucus secreted by ectodermal 
glands, in which are also agglutinated extruded nematocysts, grains of sand, etc. In the aquarium 
the specimens also secrete a similar tube, but, according to McMurrich, of much lighter texture. 


ACTINAUGE Verrill, 1883. 
Actinauge verrilli McMurrich. 
Actinauge nodosa, Verrill, Am. Jour. Sci., vol. v1, 1873, p. 440; Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool., vol. x1, 1883, p. 50. 
Actinauge verrilli, McMurrich, Proc. U. S. Nat. Mus., vol. xvi, 1893, p. 184. 

Among the collections at Woods Hole I found four specimens of this species, two of which were 
taken by the Albatross in 1885 at station 2506 from a depth of 27 fathoms. The other two were taken by 
the Fish Hawk in 1899 at station 7070. These specimens differ more or less in general external features. 
The Albatross specimens (contracted) measured 5 and 7cm.in height by about 4 and 5 cm. in diameter. 
The warty nodules, or verruce, were very prominent and characteristic. They were disposed in about 
24 longitudinal rows in the smaller specimen. The capitular ridges were somewhat less evident and 
definite but about 40oin number. The larger specimen was much more contracted, making it imprac- 
ticable to determine exactly the number and disposition of these structures, but the longitudinal rows 
seemed to be about 28 in number. 


250 BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES. 


In the Fish Hawk specimens the verrucz were much less prominent, and the capitvlar ridges and 
longitudinal rows likewise indistinct and correspondingly indefinite. They appeared, therefore, of 
smoother and cleaner texture than the former, which were rough and the furrows and nodular interstices 
coated with a brownish deposit in marked contrast to the whitish points of the nodules themselves. 

While this species is seldom seen among the fauna of the region as strictly interpreted, still it has 
seemed quite proper to make at least a brief reference to their presence among contiguous fauna. 


MADREPORARIA. 


Of the Madreporaria there are comparatively few species which come within the range of the present 
synopsis. Of these by far the most common is Astrangia, which abounds almost everywhere. The 
more characteristic features of the order have been given in an earlier section. 


ASTRANGIA M. Edwards and Haime. 


Corallum forming an encrusting mass over the substructure, the colony forming variously disposed 
aggregates of polyps, mostly of small dimensions, though occasionally branching in rather complex 
fashion, as shown in figure 9, plate xt. The polyps are very transparent, but appear white as viewed 
against a dark background. 


Astrangia dane Agassiz. [Pl. xm, fig. 9.] 


Astrangia dane Agassiz, Proc. Am. Assoc. Adv. Sci., vol. 0, p. 68, 1847; Milne-Edwards and Haime, Ann. des Sci. Nat., 
3d ser., T. x, 1850. 
Astrangia astreiformis Leidy, Jour. Acad. Nat. Sci., vol. m, 1855, p. «39. 
dane Verrill, Mem. Boston Soc. Nat. His., vol. 1, 1864, p. 40; Inv. An. Vineyard Sound, 1874, p. 740. 

This is the best-known coral, having a natural habitat within the region. Indeed, it is the only 
one at all familiar along the shore waters of the New England coast. It occurs almost everywhere, 
growing on rocks, piles of docks, shells, etc., at or just below low-water line to a depth of 15 to 20 fathoms. 
Its range is given as from Florida to Cape Cod. It has also been reported from the waters of Casco Bay, 
Me. ‘The species forms irregular incrustations of rather small dimensions over shells, rocks, etc., though 
it occasionally becomes larger and branches in rather complex fashion. It lives well in the aquarium 
for an indefinite time. Polyps in expansion about 10 to 15 mm. in height and with about 24 delicate 
tentacles, which bristle with nematocysts, especially about the tips. Cells of the corallum rather 
shallow and with numerous septa, as shown in the figure. The breeding season seems to be chiefly in 
midsummer. I have occasionally obtained eggs in the aquarium but it has been found difficult to 
secure them under conditions favorable for development. 


ORBICELLA Dana, 1846. 
Orbicella acropora (Linnzeus). 


Madrepora acropora Linnezus, Syst. Nat., x ed., p. 708. 
Madrepora annularis Ellis & Solander, Nat. Hist. Zooph., 1786, p. 169. 

faveolata Ellis & Solander, op. cit., p. 166. 
Helias‘rea annularis M. Edwards & Haime, Hist. Nat. Corall., vol. m, p. 473, 1857. 

acropora Milne-Edwards & Haime, op. cit., p. 477. 
Astrea annularis Lamarck, An. sans Vert., 2d ed., vol. 0, p. 405. 
Orbicella annularis Pourtales, Mem. Mus. Comp. Zool., vol. vu, 1880; A. Agassiz, Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool., vol. xx, p. 61, 

1890. 
acropora Vaughan, Bull. U. S. Fish Comm., vol. m1, p. 301, r90r. 


A fragment of this coral was found by Dr. F. B. Sumner on the beach at Nobska (Woods Hole) 
in July, 1906, and still another some two years later. Both specimens were somewhat worn by water 
action, yet easily identified. So far as known, the species has not hitherto been recorded north of 
Bermuda, Porto Rico, or similar range. And while at first I was disposed to regard its occurrence here 
as accidental, possibly through tourist agency, still the facts seem to warrant recording, leaving to 


ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION: 251 


subsequent events the determination of its relation to the region. The specimen measured about 50 
by 85 mm., and while more or less eroded was in good state of preservation. The extended dredgings 
made in the waters of Vineyard Sound for many years would seem to have made more or less certain 
its discovery if native to these waters. Vaughan’s description of the species from Porto Rico gives 
no account as to depth from which taken, but merely the locality (Mayaguez) and from reef. Its habi- 
tat is probably quite shallow, and the course of the Gulf Stream in the region of Woods Hole might 
warrant its northern range. However, speculation is uncalled for; the facts are given for what they 
are, as suggested above. 


ALCYONARIA. 


The alcyonarian fauna of the region is so limited in species as to call for only passing notice. At 
most but two er three species are represented—one under the genus Alcyonium and perhaps two under 
the genus Penatula. In the deeper waters adjacent to Nantucket and off Marthas Vineyard the group 
has numerous representatives, accounts of which may be found in the reports of the dredging opera- 
ions of the Albatross and Fish Hawk from 1880 to 1898. But as recent collections have added no addi- 
tional facts, either as to species or distribution, it will suffice to call attention to the above reports. 

It seems well to briefly describe the two species more likely to be met with by the student, though 
without attempting details as to structure and habits. 


ALCYONIUM Lianezus, 1758. 


Linneus, Syst. Nat., Ed. x, vol. 1, p. 803. 
Dana, Zoophytes, 1846, p. 611. 
Milne-Edwards, Corallines, 1857. 

Corallum fleshy, with granular spicules which do not project beyond the surface; base more or 
less enlarged and adherent to rocks, shells, etc. Colony variously branched, the branches thick and 
fingerlike, stem more or less devoid of polyps, which are abundant on the branches and terminal por- 
tions, and retractile within the ccenosarc. 


Alcyonium carneum Agassiz. 
Halcyonium carneum Agassiz, Proc. Am. Assoc. Adv. Sci., 1850, p. 209. 
Alcyonium digitatum Stimpson, Marine Inv. Grand Manan, 1853, p. 7; Smithsonian Contr., vol. vt. 
Alcyonium carneum Verrill, Mem. Boston Nat. Hist., 1866, vol. 1; Inv. An. Vineyard Sound, p. 497, 737. 

This conspicuous alcyonarian is well known to almost every collector along the New England 
coast who has paid attention to the ccelenterate fauna to any extent. It is rather common from Vine- 
yard Sound northward to Maine and beyond, occurring on rocks, shells, etc., and in depths of from 
10 to 30fathoms. It shows small adaptability to aquarium conditions, soon dying when placed therein. 
The color is variable, from pale flesh color to bright pink or reddish or orange. The colony is branched. 
variously, the branches thick and fingerlike, from which probably arose the common name, ‘dead 
men’s fingers,’’ often used by fishermen. The stem is attached by an expanded base to any convenient 
support, such as shells, etc. Polyps variously distributed over upper portions of stem and branches, 
and in expansion rather conspicuous, having a length of from 7 to 10 mm.; they are highly contractile, 
and capable of entire retraction within the coenenchyma. ‘The tentacles are eight in number, beau- 
tifully fringed with delicate lobes so characteristic of the order. 


PENNATULA. 


Pennatula aculeata Danielson and Koren. 
Pennatula aculeata Danielson and Koren, Forhandl. Vidansk. Selsk, 1858; same authors, Fauna Litt. Norv., m1, 1877. 
Verrill, Am. Jour. Sci., 1873. 
This species was taken by the Fish Hawk at several stations off Marthas Vineyard and Block Island 
in 1882 and 1899, several specimens being now in the collection at Woods Hole. This is a well-known 
and very beautiful pennatulid; stems usually bulbous at base, the bulb larger at the proximal end, 


252 BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES. 


rachis rather larger in median portion; general shape featherlike, hence the name; polyps borne on 
upper portion of the pinne. The colony varies in size from 10 to 25 cm.; color beautiful purplish red, 
bulb whitish and opaque ir preservation. Species widely distributed over both eastern and western 
Atlantic and along the entire New England coast and south to Chesapeake Bay. 


LITERATURE CITED. 
Acassiz, L. 
1847. Proceedings of the American Association forthe Advancement of Science, vol. 11, p. 68 et seq. 
Acassiz, E. C. and A. 
1865. Seaside studies in natural history. 155 p., illus. Boston. 
ANDRES, A. 
1884. Le Attinie. Fauna und Flora des Golfes von Neapel, bd. rx. 
BENEDEN, E. VAN. 
1879. Les Anthozoaires de la Plankton Expedition. Leipzig. 
CARLGREN, O. 
1904. Studien iiber Regeneration und Regulationserscheinungen. Kongliga Svenska Vetenskaps 
Akademiens Handlingar, bd. 37, no. 8; bd. 43, no. 9. 
DUERDEN, J. E. 
1898. Jamaican Actiniaria. pt. 1. Scientific Transactions of the Royal Dublin Society, vol. v1, 
P- 329-376, pl. XVM—-XxIX. 
1900. Jamaican Actiniaria, pt. u. Ibid., vol. vm, p. 133-210, pl. X-xxv. 
1902. Report on the actinians of Porto Rico. Bulletin of the United States Fish Commission, 
vol. xx, 1900, pt. 11, p. 321-374, pl. 1-xn. 
1904. The coral Siderastrea radians and its postlarval development. Carnegie Institution. 130 p., 
11 pl. 
ELuis and SOLANDER. 
1786. The natural history of many curious and uncommon Zoophytes. 208 p., 63 pl. London. 
Goss, P. H. 
1858. Synopsis of the families, genera, and species of the British Actinie. Annals and Magazine 
of Natural History, 3d ser., vol. 1, p. 414. 
1858a. Characters and descriptions of some new British sea anemones. Ibid., vol. m1, p. 192. 
1860. Actinologia Britannica: A history of the British sea-anemones and corals. 362 p., 12 col. pl. 
London. 
Happown, A. C. 
1898. The Actiniaria of Torres Strait. Scientific Transactions of the Royal Dublin Society, vol. v1, 
P- 393-520, pl. XII-XxXxII. 
Harcitt, CHARLES W., and RocsErs, C. G. 
1902. The Alcyonaria of Porto Rico. Bulletin of the United States Fish Commission, vol. xx, 
pt. m1, p. 265-287, pl. I-1Iv. 1900. 
Harcitt, CHARLES W. 
1905. The Meduse of the Woods Hole region. Bulletin U.S. Bureau of Fisheries, vol. xxiv, 
1904, p. 21-79, 30 text fig., pl. I-vi. 
1907. Notes on the behavior of sea-anemones. Bulletin of the Marine Biological Laboratory of 
Woods Hole, Mass., vol. x11, p. 274-284. 
HeERTWIG, O. and R. 
1879. Die Actinien. Jena. 
HeERTWIG, R. 
1882. Report on the Actiniaria dredged by H. M. S. Challenger during the years 1873-1876. In: 
Report of the Scientific Results of the Exploring Voyage of H. M. S. Challenger, vol. v1, 
Zoology, pt. XV, p. 1-134, pl. r-x1v. London. 
1888. Report on the Actiniaria dredged by H. M. S. Challenger during the years 1873-1876. Ibid., 
vol. XxVI. sup. pt. Lxxin, p. 1-56, pl. I-Iv. 


. ANTHOZOA OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION. 253 


Jounston, G. 
1838 and 1847. A history of the British zoophytes. 341 p., xiv pl.; 2 ed., Edinburgh, 1838; 
London, 1847. 
KuKENTHAL, W. 
1905. Versuch einer Revision der Alcyonarian. Zoologischer Jahrbucher, bd. xx1, Abth. f. Sys- 
tematik. 
Mark, E. L. 

1884. Selections from embryological monographs—III, Polyps. Memoirs Museum Comparative 

Zoology, vol. rx, 52 p., 13 pl. 
McMourricu, J. P. 

1889. Actiniaria of the Bahama Islands. Journal of Morphology, vol. m1, p. 1 et seq. 

1890. Morphology of the Actinozoa, I. Ibid., vol. rv, p. 303. 

1893. Report of the Actiniz collected by the United States Fish Commission Steamer Albatross 
during the winter of 1887-88. Proceedings of the United States National Museum, vol. 
XVI, p. 119-216, pl. XIX-XXXV. 

1897. Morphology of the Actinozoa, IV. Zoological Bulletin, vol. 1 p. 115-121. 

1901. Report of the Hexactiniz of Columbia University Expedition to Puget Sound during the 
summer of 1896. Annals of New York Academy of Science, vol. x1v, p. 1-52, pl. I-m1. 

MILNE-EDWARDS et HAIME. 

1857-60, Histoire Naturelle des Coralliaires, ou polypes proprement dits. 3 vol. and atlas of 31 pl. 

(partly col.) Paris. 
ParKEr, G. H. 

1897. The mesenteries and siphonoglyphs in Metridium marginatum, Milne-Edwards. Bulletin 
of the Museum of Comparative Zoology, vol. xxx, p. 259-270, 1 pl. 

1900. Synopsis of the Actiniaria. The American Naturalist, vol. xxxIv, p. 747-758, 22 fig. 

1902. Notes on the dispersal of Sargartia lucia, Verrill. Ibid., vol. xxxv1, p. 491-493. 

PourrTa.es, L. F. 

1880. Report on the Corals and Antipatharia. In: Reportson the dredging operations of the United 
States Coast Survey Steamer Blake, 1878-79. Bulletin of the Museum of Comparative 
Zoology, vol. VI, p. 95-120, pl. I-11. 

VERRILL, A. E. 

1863. Revision of polyps of eastern coast of the United States. Memoirs Boston Society of Natural 
History, vol. 1, p. 1-45. 

1886. The polyps and echinoderms of New England, with descriptions of new species. Proceedings 
of the Boston Society of Natural History, vol. x, p. 333-358. 

1875. Invertebrate animals of Vineyard Sound. Report of United States Commissioner of Fish and 
Fisheries, 1871-72, p. 295-747. 

’ 1880. Notice of recent additions to the marine invertebrata of the northeastern coast of America, 
with descriptionsof new genera and species and critical remarks on others. Proceedings of 
the United States National Museum, vol. 11, 1879, p. 165-205. 

1883. Report of the Anthozoa, and on some additional species dredged by the Blake in 1877-79, 
and by the United States Fish Commission Steamer Fish Hawk in 1880-82. Bulletin 
of the Museum of Comparative Zoology, vol. x1, p. 1-72, 8 pl. 

1898. Descriptions of new American actinians, with critical notes on other species. American 
Journal of Science and Arts, 4th series, vol. v1, p. 493-498. 

1899. Descriptions of imperfectly known and new actinians. Ibid., vol. vu, p. 213 et seq. 

1899-1900. Additions to the Anthozoa and Hydrozoa of the Bermudas. Transactions of the Con- 
necticut Academy of Sciences, vol. x, p. 551-572, pl. XLVII-XLIX. 


254 


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BULLETIN OF THE BUREAU OF FISHERIES. 


DESCRIPTION OF PLATES. 
PLATE XLI. 


. Sagartia lucie, general view from side.  X 2. 
. Sagartia lucie, oral view, showing whitish lines marking position of cesophageal grooves, cad 


on the left the evidence of recent fission of specimen as shown in dim outlines of the disk 
markings. 


. Anemonia sargassensis, drawn and colored from life, showing also the clasping aspect a pedal 


Ciskaes 
PLATE XLII. 


. Eloactis producta, drawn and colored from life, showing the expanded disk, the smooth, pinkish 


lower and papillose upper portions of the column. 


. Sagartia modesta, drawn and colored from life, showing expanded pedal disk, numerous ten-. 


tacles, and the sinuous aspect of body as freely expanded in aquarium. 


. Single tentacle of specimen, showing characteristic markings.  X 3. 


PLATE XLIII. 


. Sagartia modesta, photograph from life as expanded in aquarium, the pedal disk attached to 


bottom under layer of sand. 


. Cylista leucolena, photograph from life, in aquarium. 
. Astrangia dane, an unusually large coral mass of this species. XX M4. 


PLATE XLIV. 


Cerianthus americanus, section through oesophagus, showing groove and numerous mesenteries. 
and their distribution; oe, oesophagus; ec, ectoderm. 

Cylista leucolena, section through cesophagus, showing paired grooves, mesenteries, and direc- 
tives (d), and secondary mesenterial buds. 

Edwardsia elegans, section showing distinctive mesenteries and paired directives (d); oe, 
cesophagus; ec, ectoderm. 

Anemonia sargassensis, section through oesophagus, showing primary mesenteries and numerous. 
secondary mesenterial buds; d, directive mesenteries; ec, ectoderm. 


BUELL WS. BF, 1912 : PLATE XLI 


Fig. 2, Sagartia luciae 
Oral view 


Fig. 1. Sagartia luciae 
Side view 


Fig. 3. Anemonia sargassensis 


A.HOEN & CO. BALTIMORE 


PLATE XLII 


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Fic. 8.—Cylista leucolena. 


Fic. 7.—Sagartia modesta. 


Fic, 9.—Astrangia danee, 


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Fic. 13.—Anemonia sargassensis. 


Fic. 12.—Edwardsia elegans, 


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